Help for bed bugs at hand

by simcoe.com

SIMCOE COUNTY - Local residents can now access resources to help them prevent and manage bed bugs through the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.

“Bed bugs don’t spread disease so they are not a threat to public health, but they are a real nuisance and as a result cause considerable anxiety,” said Ryan MacDougall, supervisor in the health hazards program at the health unit. “We have information available on our web site and through our Your Health Connection line to help people understand, prevent and manage bed bugs.

“We’ve also developed an assistance program in partnership with the United Way of Greater Simcoe County and Reliable Pest Control, for people who are having trouble managing bed bugs due to limited resources.”

Bed bugs are not necessarily associated with living conditions, and anyone can be affected by them. People can get bed bugs by coming into contact with them. Those who frequently travel, for example, can become exposed to bed bugs and bring them back home. Bed bugs can enter homes by attaching onto items such as clothing, bags, luggage, or second-hand furniture and electronics. They can also crawl from neighbouring apartments through cracks in the walls or by walking along pipes or electrical wires.

Homeowners who think they have bed bugs should verify with a pest control professional that the infestation is indeed bed bugs. Tenants who think they may have bed bugs should contact their landlord who can have a licensed pest control company identify the insect.

For more information about bed bugs check www.simcoemuskokahealth.org or call Your Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.